During the month of June in the United States, we commemorate and celebrate the history of the LGBTQ+ community. The origins of Pride Month can be traced back to the Stonewall Uprising in June 1969, the spark of the LGBTQ+ rights movement. The national uprising in support of the LGBTQ+ community began as a protest by members of the LGBTQ+ community against frequent police raids at the Stonewall Inn, a popular gay bar in New York City. The resistance to the police raids on the Stonewall Inn started a wave of activism, leading to Pride marches nationwide in support of the LGBTQ+ community.
In commemoration of the Stonewall Inn Uprising and to honor the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights, the first Pride parades were organized in 1970, marking the uprising’s one-year anniversary. These parades served as both a celebration and commemoration to the LGBTQ+ community while also serving to increase awareness. Since 1970, Pride events have evolved to include a wide range of activities such as parades, festivals, and rallies, while also offering individuals and allies a platform to express themselves and advocate for equal rights.
Pride month also celebrates the ruling of Obergefell v. Hodges which finally guaranteed same-sex couples the fundamental right to marry on June 26, 2015.
Pride Month helps serve as a reminder of the struggles and accomplishments of the LGBTQ+ rights movement throughout history, while also highlighting the work that still needs to be done in order to achieve full equality within our country.
The symbol of Pride is expressed in the rainbow flag, with each color representing a different area of the LGBTQ+ community. The symbolism of the flag is as follows: red for life, orange for healing, yellow for sunlight, green for nature, blue for harmony, and purple for spirit. The rainbow flag has become a symbol for the LGBTQ+ community and Pride Month, flying throughout streets and cities, symbolizing support and inclusion for the LGBTQ+ community. Pride Month continues to and will always play a very important role in helping include, empower, support, and advocate for all individuals who identify within the LGBTQ+ community.
